[Cow's milk protein intolerance as a cause of small bowel occlusion]

Helvetica Paediatrica Acta
|December 1, 1986
PubMed

Insights

Cow's milk protein formula can cause acute small bowel obstruction in infants. Removing the allergen resolved symptoms, confirming a cow's milk protein allergy as the cause.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Allergy Immunology
  • Neonatal Nutrition

Context:

  • Infants presenting with acute small bowel obstruction.
  • Early introduction of cow's milk protein-based formula.
  • Clinical and radiological evidence of obstruction.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the role of cow's milk protein in acute small bowel obstruction in infants.
  • To assess the efficacy of allergen withdrawal in managing this condition.

Summary:

  • Two infants experienced acute small bowel obstruction linked to early cow's milk protein formula feeding.
  • Symptom resolution occurred rapidly upon allergen removal, without surgery.
  • Re-challenge confirmed cow's milk protein as the causative agent for the allergic reaction.

Impact:

  • Highlights cow's milk protein allergy as a potential cause of infant bowel obstruction.
  • Demonstrates the effectiveness of dietary management in such cases.
  • Emphasizes the importance of considering allergic reactions in neonatal intestinal emergencies.

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